Maine House Opposes Iraq War

AUGUSTA, Maine — After an emotional and lengthy debate, the Maine House approved a resolution Tuesday night urging President Bush to disarm Iraq through the United Nations and without military intervention.

The resolution, amended twice to address the concerns of opponents who derided it as partisan, divisive and ineffectual, was approved, 77 to 66, and sent to the Senate. The measure says Bush should seek no resolution of the Iraqi threat that compromises the safety of Americans.

Supporters said the resolution could become the first addressing the Iraq situation to win final approval by a state lawmaking body.

A week ago, Hawaii's House adopted a resolution condemning unilateral action by the U.S. in its efforts to disarm Iraq and North Korea.

Opponents said a state legislature had no business taking up national issues.